Flexjet has broken ground on its first private terminal in Europe, the first such facility offered by a fractional operator outside North America. Located at the UK’s Farnborough Airport and scheduled for completion in 2026, the 22,600-sq-ft ramp-side structure will be separate from the airport’s FBO.

It will feature a spacious lobby and concierge desk with separate arrival and departure lounges dedicated to the company’s passengers. Additionally, it will include a dining/formal bar area with meeting spaces and expansive views of the airfield.

The London-area terminal is designed to echo the airport’s existing facilities and will incorporate environmentally friendly features such as solar panels on the roof and rainwater collection for reuse. Four electric vehicle chargers will be included.

“This development places Flexjet at the forefront of European private aviation, demonstrating the scope and scale of our international ambition and follows the exponential growth we have already achieved since we launched in Europe in 2019,” said company chairman Kenn Ricci. “We look forward to opening this truly exceptional space for our aircraft owners and their guests, which will combine stunning, contemporary design, with warm hospitality and a welcoming environment that they can call home each time they fly with us to and from Farnborough Airport.”

Machinist union members at Textron Aviation rejected the company’s latest contract proposal Saturday and began a strike just after midnight this morning. The job action involves approximately 5,000 members of the International Association of Machinists Local Lodge 774 District 70. Members voted to reject the contract by 81%. Strikers represent workers at Textron Aviation's east and west campuses, as well as service center, in Wichita and component manufacturing locations.

The local bargaining committee had recommended that its members accept the company’s offer of a 26% wage hike over four years, including an immediate 11% increase (followed by 4% in 2025, 5% in 2026, and 6% in 2027); a guaranteed minimum $3,000 annual lump sum plus an annual bonus based on years of service (from $250 to $1,000); an increase in the employer matching contribution to employee 401(k) plans to 9%; a maximum 3% cap on health insurance premiums; a zero increase in no-deductible premiums through 2028; and an increased cost-of-living adjustment from $700 to $1,500 per year.

In a statement, Textron Aviation said it was “disappointed” in the vote, adding that while it was committed to continuing to work with the union, it “has prepared for this scenario to ensure the business continues to operate for customers.” The company’s website directed customers to several different contacts for inquiries regarding aircraft deliveries, service, and parts.

Wheels Up Experience lead investors Delta Air Lines, CK Wheels, and Cox Investment Holdings agreed today to extend the lock-up restriction with respect to all their shares of common stock (issued under the Investment and Investor Rights Agreement) for an additional year, until Sept. 20, 2025.

“I appreciate the confidence and support of the company’s lead investors,” said Wheels Up CEO George Mattson. “We believe that this extended commitment by our investors allows us to continue to execute on our strategic plan.”

The news comes after the company reported progress in bolstering its balance sheet during the second quarter, further reducing losses as its leadership team strives to reverse the private flight provider’s fortunes under a new business model. “The level of debt is not out of line with the size of our company and our revenue base; we just need to get the EBITDA where it needs to go,” Mattson told AIN at the time.

Wheels Up recently restructured its executive leadership team. Former chairman of operations Dave Holtz was promoted earlier this year to COO. Before his time at Wheels Up, Holtz ran the operations and customer center at Delta Air Lines, which owns a substantial stake in Wheels Up. Dave Harvey was recently appointed as chief commercial officer.

Helicopter service provider SGi has ordered 10 Leonardo AW09s from authorized distributor Helitech Asia and will be the launch customer for the light helicopter in Indonesia. SGi plans to use the AW09s for passenger and cargo transport, medevac, and utility operations.

Two AW09 preproduction models are logging flight test hours in preparation for certification next year. A third AW09, the first production model, will join the test fleet later this year.

“Our investment in the AW09 is a testament to our commitment to modernizing our fleet and delivering unparalleled services to our clients,” said SGi CEO François Lassale. “The AW09 helicopters not only enhance operational efficiency but also significantly improve performance, capability, and flexibility—truly a game changer for the services we can offer across Indonesia. Their enhanced efficiency aligns with our sustainability goals and helping us deliver safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible helicopter services.”

Powered by a 1,006-shp Safran Arriel 2K turbine engine, the AW09 can carry up to eight passengers and fly at a maximum speed of 140 knots. Maximum endurance is five hours and maximum range is 430 nm. The AW09’s maximum takeoff weight with internal load is 6,284 pounds, or 6,614 pounds with external load, and sling loads can weigh up to 3,300 pounds.

The Million Air aircraft maintenance team has meticulously restored a historic Douglas A-26 Invader bomber aircraft. This twin-engine light bomber, which played a crucial role during the later stages of World War II and in the post-war years, then flew transatlantic for the anniversary of D-Day, piloted by Million Air's CEO.

Texas Aerospace Technologies has received supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for installation of True Blue Power’s TS28 emergency battery power supply. The unit—a drop-in replacement for the Radiant CBS28-1—is TSO certified and uses nickel metal hydride technology, which helps operators reduce costs by providing improved performance, extended battery life, and more energy per cell compared to nickel-cadmium batteries.

The TS28 is now approved for use in the Cessna Citation II, Excel, Citation III, Sovereign, Latitude, and Longitude, demonstrating the company’s ability to work with OEMs to deliver avionics solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and innovation.

“Securing the STC for the True Blue Power TS28 is a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise,” explained Texas Aerospace CEO Cisco Hernandez. “This certification allows us to offer a powerful emergency battery power supply solution that provides peace of mind for pilots and operators, knowing their lighting systems will have backup power when needed most.”

Gary/Chicago International Airport (KGYY) reached a milestone in its process of obtaining a new air traffic control tower, with the FAA formally approving the required siting study that will allow for the placement of the structure. This concludes a formal permission process with the agency that began two years ago.

Construction for the new tower is now on track to begin in the second half of 2025. When completed by second-quarter 2026, it will replace the existing tower that has stood since 1972. While the older tower is still functional, it has become increasingly obsolete, according to the airport.

The new structure will be 50 feet taller and will feature the latest technology, including advanced radar and communications equipment, to better assist controllers in managing a rising number of flight operations while maintaining high safety standards.

“We are thrilled to receive approval for this critical project, and this significant investment in our airport infrastructure will enhance our air traffic management abilities,” said KGYY executive director Dan Vicari. “The new tower will not only improve operational efficiency but also provide our dedicated air traffic controllers with the tools they need to manage our skies safety.”

Duncan Aviation recently refurbished a Falcon 2000EX with “silk carpet, new [passenger service unit] overlay panels, streamlined drink rails, and several unique details” at its MRO facility in Lincoln, Nebraska.

“Typically, carpets feature a flatter tone or incorporate accents of silk,” explained senior lead designer Stephanie Kuhn. “In this case, the silk covering the entire field provides a shimmer effect and serves as a prominent focal point.”

The company developed the passenger service unit overlay panels to provide an updated look to the cabin interior while allowing for easy removal and installation. New Prizm LED lighting, USB ports, Collins Venue cabin management system, and the Alto Technology sound system were also installed.

“From the upgrades in the build, layered with newer, contemporary details and materials, we breathed new life into the aircraft,” said senior Duncan modifications and sales representative Tracey Boesch. “It was really a treat to see the before and after. It’s always a fun and enjoyable process, and I have to remind myself to take it all in. Typically, we get the project done, take photos, then it’s on to the next one. I took an extra moment to linger and enjoy the great artisanship our teams performed on this aircraft.”

Boglietto, Italy-based helicopter operator Elicuneo has been tapped as authorized sales and service center by helicopter manufacturer Schweizer. As such, Elicuneo can now provide Schweizer helicopter and parts sales, maintenance, and customer support in Italy.

With the largest fleet of Schweizer 300 helicopters in the country, Elicuneo also stocks a full inventory of parts to support its fleet and customer aircraft.

“The S300 is our primary aircraft and, in our view, still the best training helicopter today,” said Elicuneo CEO Marino Mauro. “Since 1982, we have been using the 300 for crop spraying, pipeline inspection, and flight training. We are proud and confident in our ability to continue this tradition and support as many operators as possible in maintaining this helicopter as the best in its class.”

According to Schweizer president and CEO David Horton, growing parts and aircraft production has resulted in more customers in Europe that need maintenance, parts, and helicopters. “Elicuneo’s expertise and experience with Schweizer helicopters made it an ideal partner for supporting our customers in Italy,” he said. “We are pleased to have a partner in Elicuneo to help meet our Italian customers’ needs closer to home.”

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